Did you ever notice this little line in a well-known story?

An eager, enthusiastic young man comes to Jesus and says, “I’ve kept all the commandments all my life. Tell me what more I should do.” He is trying so hard; he wants eternal life so much. Mark, telling the story, says,

Looking at the man, Jesus felt genuine love for him.

Even before Jesus answered, I think He knew what the man’s response would be. I think He knew the young man just couldn’t quite do everything Christ asked of him.

And yet, Jesus loved Him.

This detail of the story warms my heart. Because it is my story. I just could not be “good enough.” I tried to live up to Christ’s standards, but I made a big mess of it. And yet He loved me. Before I even realized how much I needed Him.

His love does not depend on our goodness. It comes out of His goodness and mercy. I am so grateful!

Scripture: Mark 10:21 (NLT)